The Major Taylor Congressional Gold Medal Act awards a congressional gold medal posthumously to Marshall Walter “Major” Taylor in recognition of his contributions to the nation as an athlete, trailblazer, and civil rights advocate

Legislation commemorates the barrier and record-breaking life of one of the greatest American cyclists

Dozens of cyclist groups across the country are named in honor of Taylor, including one in Macon, Georgia

Senator Reverend Warnock: “Before the time of Jackie Robinson and Muhammad Ali, Major Taylor won a gold medal competing at the highest level, pedaled through racial barriers, and helped to advance the rights of Black Americans in sports through his impressive skill and his charismatic commitment to expanding the joy of cycling to others”

Senator Braun: “Major Taylor’s legacy extends beyond his remarkable achievements on the track. He lived the Hoosier values of courage and resilience in the face of adversity, made his home state proud, and paved the way for future generations of athletes”

Senator Warnock and the Middle Georgia Major Taylor Youth Club

Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced the bipartisan Major Taylor Congressional Gold Medal Act. The bill commemorates the life of Marshall Walter “Major” Taylor who, while helping advance the rights of Black Americans in the early 1900s, also set one of the fastest cycling sprint times of the era.

The Major Taylor Congressional Gold Medal Act would award a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal to Taylor, recognizing his contributions to the nation as an athlete, trailblazer, and civil rights advocate. If passed, the award will be presented in a ceremony and given to Taylor’s great-granddaughter, Karen Donovan, to commemorate his enduring impact on the nation.

“Major Taylor was a record-setter on the track and a trailblazer for civil rights. Before the time of Jackie Robinson and Muhammad Ali, Major Taylor won a gold medal competing at the highest level, pedaled through racial barriers, and helped to advance the rights of Black Americans in sports through his impressive skill and his charismatic commitment to expanding the joy of cycling to others,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I am proud to introduce the Major Taylor Congressional Gold Medal Act with Senator Braun, helping to forever memorialize Taylor’s contributions to our nation’s rich heritage.”

“Major Taylor’s legacy extends beyond his remarkable achievements on the track,” said Senator Mike Braun. “He lived the Hoosier values of courage and resilience in the face of adversity, made his home state proud, and paved the way for future generations of athletes.”

Taylor (1878-1932) was among the world’s first Black sports superstars. He was world cycling champion in 1899, American sprint champion in 1900, and set numerous track cycling records during his life. Nicknamed “Major” in his youth in Indianapolis because he would wear a military-style jacket while doing tricks on his bike outside of a bike shop where he worked, Taylor was the second Black world champion in any sport. Taylor retired from racing in 1910 and died in 1932.

The Major Taylor Congressional Gold Medal Act bill text can be found HERE

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